Frank S. Liska, 84, of Fords, N.J., formerly of Coaldale, died Tuesday, Dec. 1, in the Lenox Hill Hospital, New York. He was the husband of the late Louise Liska, who died in 1998.

Prior to retiring, he was a member of the maintenance staff of the FMC Corporation, Carteret, N.J.

He was a Navy veteran of Word War II and a member of Our Lady of Peace Church, Fords.

He loved gardening.

Surviving are two sons, Francis X., and his wife, Pamela Scanlon, of the Bronx, N.Y., and Gregory S. of Loganville, Ga.; two daughters, Germaine L.. Lytle, wife of Steven J. Reader of Edison, N.J., and Theresa A. Liska, and her husband, Garth Holt, of Clark, N.J.; and four grandchildren.

Service: Funeral Liturgy 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 4, Our Lady of Peace Church, Fords, N.J. Interment 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, St. Jerome Cemetery, Tamaqua. Call 10:45-11:15 a.m. Saturday, Zizelmann-Roche Funeral Home, 500 E. Broad St., Tamaqua. Online registry at zrgfuneralhomes.com.

Published in Times News on December 3, 2009

William E. 'Bud" Rickert, 82, of East Howard Avenue, Coaldale, died Saturday in Coaldale. He was the husband of Therese (Schilling) Ricket.

Employed as a janitor at Marian Catholic High School, Hometown, he had previously been employed at the former Bundy Tubing, Hometown.

Born in Palmerton, he was a son of the late Earl and Margaret (Waters) Rickert.

A veteran of World WarII, he served in the U.S. Navy.

A member of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Tamaqua; he was a long time member of the former St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Coaldale.

A graduate of the former Summit Hill High School, he was a member of the Coaldale American Legion.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are five sons, Daniel of Coaldale, Cletus and his wife, Cindy, of Norristown, James and his wife, Renae of Lansford, John and his wife Tracey of Lansford, Tom and his wife Susan of Coaldale and Bill and his wife Donna of Leesport; a daughter, Catherine, wife of Larry Fritzinger of Coaldale; a sister, Ruthann Schaare of East Stroudsburg; 15 grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.

Services: Mass of Christian Burial, 9:30 a.m., Tuesday, SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Tamaqua, with the Rev. William Linkchorst officiating. Private interment at the convenience of the family. Call Monday, 6 - 8 p.m. or Tuesday, 8-9 p.m., August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale. Wake service 7 p.m. Monday. Online registry at zrgfuneralhomes.com.

Published in Times News on November 23, 2009

Daniel J. Rehatchek, 55, of 308 W. Phillips St., Coaldale, died Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009, at St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale.

Born in Coaldale, he was a son of the late John and Mary (Harvilla) Rehatchek.

He worked for Blue Ridge Pressure Casting, Coaldale Borough and Highwood Industrial Park, Hometown.He was a graduate of Panther Valley High School in 1973.

He was a member of the former Ss. Cyril and Methodius Roman Catholic Church, Coaldale.

He was a former Coaldale councilman and a member of the Coaldale Complex.

Surviving is a brother, Richard C. Rehatchek of Coaldale, with whom Daniel resided; a sister, Patricia Orsulsak, of Coaldale; a niece Lori, wife of Ted Dacey, of Nesquehoning; a nephew, John Orsulsak, and his wife, Kristel, of Nesquehoning; four great-nieces ; a great-nephew; and his pet Poodle Geff.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas.

Service: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2009, at 11 a.m. from the Skrabak-Parambo Funeral Home, 210 E. Bertsch St., Lansford, with the Rev. Stephen Halabura officiating. Interment, Ss. Cyril and Methodius Cemetery, Nesquehoning. Calling hours, Wednesday, 10-11 a.m.

Mrs. Cindy Marie (Malinyak) Cannuli, 43, of W. Lehigh St., Coaldale died Thursday, October 29, in Coaldale.

She was a Catholic by faith and a respiratory therapist at St. Luke's Miners Memorial in Coaldale.

Cindy graduated from Chester County Arts & Technical School in 1984. She was also a graduate of Reading Area Community College.

Born in Chester, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Wayne A. Malinyak and Mary Ann (Yashura) Burcin of Phoenixville, Pa.

Surviving in addition to her mother is her maternal grandmother, Irene Yashura of Phoenixville, Pa.; step-son Austin S. Cannuli of Douglassville, Pa.; and aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death in 2005, by her husband, Steven A. Cannuli.

Services: Arrangements are being handled by E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home, Inc., 655 E. Broad St., Tamaqua, Pa, where the family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 3, 2009, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 3, 2009, at

St. Jerome R.C. Church, 264 W. Broad St., Tamaqua, Pa. The Rev. James C. Bechtel is officiating.

Interment will be at Sky View Memorial Park, Tamaqua, Pa.

Memorials in her honor may be made to the church or to St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, 360 E. Ruddle St., Coaldale, Pa. 18218.

Online registry and condolences may be signed at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com.

Published in Times News on October 31, 2009

John B. "Jack" Soberick Sr., 69, of 638 E. Bertsch St., Lansford, died Tuesday morning in his residence. He was the husband of his best friend, Catherine "Cathy" (Danchak) Soberick.

A skilled mechanic, he operated the family business, Soberick's Home and Auto Supply, Coaldale, which was established in 1945 and operated continuously to this day. He was especially dedicated to his elderly customers.

Born in Hazleton, he was a son of the late George and Helen (Modrick) Soberick.

Catholic by faith, he was a 1958 graduate of Marian Catholic High School.An avid railroad buff and model train collector, he was a member of the Lansford Knights of Columbus Council; a life member of the Coaldale Fire Company, where he served as assistant fire chief; the Train Collectors' Association; and a life member of the Lansford Fire Company.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are two sons, Jack B. Jr. of Lansford and his fiance, Mary Kruczek, and Kevin J. of Fogelsville and his wife, Erin; his former wife, Rose Mary Cannon of Lansford; two siblings; a brother-in-law, Michael Danchak of Coaldale and his wife, Debbie; a mother-in-law, Helen Danchak of Coaldale; and six grandchildren, Lauren, Anthony and Hannah Soberick and Frank, John and Camille Kruczek.

He will be greatly missed by his loving wife, family, friends and grandchildren who will miss visits from Granpop/Pops.

Services: Mass of Christian Burial, 11 a.m., Friday, St. Katherine Drexel Catholic Church, Lansford, with the Rev. Kenneth Medve officiating. Interment, parish cemetery, Summit Hill. Call Friday, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale. Contributions in his name may be made to the Ruth Steinert SPCA, Box 734, Minersville, PA 17954. Online registry at zrgfuneralhomes.com.

Published in Times News from September 29 to September 30, 2009

Robert J. Johnson, of Foster Avenue, Coaldale, died Monday in Ashland. He was the husband of Bernadette (Latka) Johnson. Zizelmann Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 9/22/2009

Mrs. Dorothy Evelyn Frye, 72, of Coaldale, died Friday, Sept. 18, in her home. She was the widow of Lewis Frye Sr.

Born in Tamaqua, she was a daughter of the late John and Emma (Everett) Goho.

Surviving are four sons, Lewis Jr., and his wife, Kathleen, Edward, and his companion, Trina, and William, and his companion, Shannon, all of Coaldale, and John, and his wife, Jaime, of Kaska; two sisters, Connie Scheeler of Barnesville and Patricia Evans of Tamaqua; three brothers, John of Clamtown, Richard of Tamaqua and William of Coaldale; and five grandchildren.

Published in the Times News on 9/22/2009

Goida, John

John Goida, 85, of 22 W. Ridge St., Lansford, died Sunday, Sept. 13, in the Hospice House of V.N.A. of St. Luke's, Lower Saucon Township. He was the husband of the late Helen (Hlubik) Goida, who died March 14, 1996.

He worked for the Pa. Department of Environmental Recourse running heavy equipment for 18 years until retiring in 1978.

Born in Lansford, he was a son of the late Peter and Annie (Heraus) Goida.He was a member of St. Mary Russian Orthodox Church, Coaldale.

Goida was an Army veteran of World War II, having served with the 7th Infantry, 3rd Division, in the European, African and Middle Eastern Theater of Operations.

He was also a member of the Coaldale Russian Club and the Lansford AMVETS Post.

In his younger days, he was an active member of the Lansford Little League.

He was a fan of the Oakland As and Notre Dame, and also loved following all local high school sports.

Surviving are two sons Paul, and his wife, Lennora, of Lake Hauto, and Stephen Hlubik of Dallas, Tex.; a daughter Roseann, wife of Greg Davidyock of Fayetteville, Pa.; two sisters, Olga Cash of Easton and Catherine Belser of Monroe, N.Y.; 15 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by two sons John "Gabby" and Michael; two brothers, Teddy and Michael; and seven sisters, Mary, Anna, Helen, Eva, Julia, Elizabeth and an infant, Eva.

Service: Funeral service 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16, St. Mary Russian Orthodox Church, Coaldale, with the Rev. Daniel Mathewson officiating. Military graveside service, parish cemetery, Summit Hill, under direction of Panther Valley High School JROTC. Call 6-8 p.m. Tuesday and 9-10 a.m. Wednesday in the church. Contributions in his name may be made to the church, 217 First St., Coaldale, Pa. 18218, or the St. Luke Hospice, 2455 Black River Rd., Bethlehem, Pa. 18015. Arrangements by Sverchek-Blazosky Funeral Home, 340

Mrs. Sara M. Terry, 84, formerly of Lansford and Tamaqua, passed away on Aug. 28, 2009, in Honolulu, Hawaii. She was the widow of Jack R. Terry.

Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late James and Helen (McNealis) Arner. She was a 1943 graduate of St. Mary's High School.

Prior to retiring she worked as a sewing machine operator in several local garment factories and as a cashier at the Friendly Market in Lansford.

Until leaving the area in 2002 she was an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary, most recently Unit 314, holding local and district offices over the years. She was also active with the Girl Scouts when her daughters were Scouts and was awarded the Girl Scout Mother of the Year award in 1963.

She is survived by her daughters Sara (Emmett) Gallagher of South Carolina and Jacqueline McLaughlin of Honolulu; three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; sisters Helen (Harry) Gates of Gibbstown, N.J., and Theresa Ciavaglia of Coalale; brothers William (Faith) Arner of Tamaqua and Robert (Pat) Arner of Millsboro, Del; and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by brothers James, Bernard, Russell, Jack, Charles, Francis, Larry and Joe; sister, Patricia Trudich; and son-in-law, Richard McLaughlin.

Service: Memorial graveside service on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 10:30 a.m. in Sky-View Memorial Park, Hometown, Tamaqua R.2, with the Rev. Stephen J. Halabura, officiating. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations in her memory to the Lansford American Legion Riders, c/o 19 Swenson St., Tamaqua, Pa. 18252; or Amvets Post One, c/o 64 Oak Court, Nesquehoning, Pa. 18240; for their veteran assistance programs. The Skrabak-Parambo Funeral Home, Lansford, is in charge of arrangements.

Published in the Times News from 9/4/2009 - 9/11/2009
Dorothy Frye

Born: June 17, 1957

Place of Birth: Coaldale, Pennsylvania

Death: August 22, 2009

Place of Death: Hazleton, Pennsylvania

Occupation: Certified Nursing Assistant

Survivors

Daughter, April Krynock and her husband, Stephen; Grandchildren, 3; Sister, Cathy McHugh; Nieces, 3; Nephews, 2.

Preceded in Death By

Father, Micahel J. McHugh, Jr.;
Mrs. Dorothy Evelyn Frye, 72, of Coaldale, died Friday, Sept. 18, in her home. She was the widow of Lewis Frye Sr.

Zavitsky, Lewie Allen

Lewie Allen Zavitsky, 33, of Ruddle Street, Coaldale, died Monday, Aug. 3, in the St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale, as a result of an accident that night on Route 309 in Rush Township.He was a truck driver for AutoZone, Hazleton. Born in Philadelphia, he was a son of Leo Allen and Mary Ann (Hartner) Zavitsky of Coaldale.He was of the Catholic faith.The deceased was a graduate of Panther Valley High School.He enjoyed racing, camping, Mustangs and Monster Trucks.Surviving in addition to his parents are two sons, Lewie Allen Jr., and his mother, Catherine Lussman, and Leland, both of Coaldale; his companion, Keri Taschler, and two brothers, Leo Allen Jr. and Luckey Allen, all of Coaldale; a sister, Mary Ann, wife of Dave Seip of Hellertown; a sister-in-law Bobbi, wife of Brian Kulaga; a niece, Jessica Seip; a nephew, David Seip III; and aunts and uncles. Service: Funeral service 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 7, E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home, 655 E. Broad St., Tamaqua, with the Rev. William Linkchorst officiating. Interment, Sky-View Memorial Park, Hometown. Call 9-11 a.m. Friday. Contributions in his name may be sent to his children, c/o Mr. and Mrs. Leo Zavitsky, 174 First St., Coaldale, Pa. 182189. For online condolences and registry, visit www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com.
Born in Tamaqua, she was a daughter of the late John and Emma (Everett) Goho.

Published in the Times News on 8/4/2009

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Mrs. Anna M. Phillipovich of Tamaqua died Sunday, Aug. 2, surrounded by her family in the home of her son, John Phillipovich Jr., West Penn Pike, Tamaqua, with whom she resided. She was the widow of John Phillipovich Sr., who died in 2003.Prior to her marriage, she worked for the former Atlas Powder Company, Reynolds, the former Kiddie Kloes, Lansford, and then as a nanny in New York City, N.Y.Born in Coaldale, she was a daughter of the late Martin and the Johanna (Petrash) Matula.Surviving in addition to her son are two daughters, JoAnn, wife of Joseph Barnisky of Tamaqua, and Cindy M., wife of Gary Smolick of Northampton; a sister, Jennie Serina of Lansford; a brother Thomas of Coaldale; and two grandchildren, JoLynn Valentine and Christina Smolick.She was also preceded in death by three brothers, Martin, John and Joseph. Service: Mass of Christian Burial 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, with the Rev. William Linkchorst officiating. Interment, SS. Cyril and Methodius Cemetery, Nesquehoning. No calling hours. Memorials and masses in her memory may be made to the church, 301 Pine St., Tamaqua, Pa. 18252. Arrangements by E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home, 655 E. Broad St., Tamaqua. Sign online registry and condolences at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com.

Published in the Times News on 8/4/2009

Surviving are four sons, Lewis Jr., and his wife, Kathleen, Edward, and his companion, Trina, and William, and his companion, Shannon, all of Coaldale, and John, and his wife, Jaime, of Kaska; two sisters, Connie Scheeler of Barnesville and Patricia Evans of Tamaqua; three brothers, John of Clamtown, Richard of Tamaqua and William of Coaldale; and five grandchildren.

Bernadine Kobetic, 92, died Friday, July 24, 2009, at the Southeastern Pa. Veterans Center, in Spring City, Chester County, where she resided. Before that, she lived in Lansdale for 32 years and was formerly of Coaldale.Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late August and Mary (Polakovic) Kobetic. She served in the Women's Army Corps during World War II.Ms. Kobetic had a career as a beautician and worked in New York City.Surviving are nieces, Dolores Drozd and her husband, Robert, of Hilltown, and Frances Bass, and her husband, Ken, of Lincoln, DE.; a great niece, Michele Drozd, and great nephew, Matthew Drozd, both of Hilltown.Two brothers preceded her in death, Joseph and Frank Kobetic.Arrangements are private with Huff & Lakjer Funeral Home, Lansdale, in charge.

Published in the Times News on 9/22/2009

Samuel Kasick, 90, of Allentown, died Sunday, May 24, in his home. He was the husband of Pauline Kiddo (Chernaskey) Kasick.He owned and operated Imperial Cleaners, Allentown, for 48 years.Born in Lansford and raised in Coaldale and Allentown, he was a son of the late Simeon and Anastasia (Yurchak) Kasick.He was an Army veteran of World War II.Surviving in addition to his widow are a son, Atty. Samuel R., and his wife, Marj, of Coopersburg; a daughter, Nadia P., wife of Gary T. Saba of Allentown; a brother John of Allentown; and four grandchildren.

Published in the Times News on 5/26/2009

Fred "Tooter" Howell, 95, of 31 E. High St., Coaldale, died Saturday, May 23, in the Seton Manor, Orwigsburg. He was the husband of the late Anna Mae (Rowan) Howell, who died in 1984.He was self-employed in the laundry business in Coaldale, and had worked for the former Slatington Lamp Factory.Born in Tamaqua, he was a son of the late Ephriam and Anna Howell.He was a member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Tamaqua.An Army veteran of World War II, he was a Purple Heart recipient and a member of the Summit Hill American Legion and the Nesquehoning V.F.W. posts.Surviving are a brother Jim of Macungie; a loving grandson, A.J. Serina, and wife, Maria, and a great- grandson, Andrew Serina, of Tamaqua; a son-in-law, Andy Serina of Lansford; four other grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.He was also preceded in death by two daughters, Mary Serina, who died in 2006, and Ann Kokinda, who died in 1987; and several brothers and sisters. Service: Funeral service 11 a.m. Thursday, May 28, Skrabak-Parambo Funeral Home, 210 E. Bertsch St., Lansford, with the Rev. Phyllis Wolford officiating. Military graveside service, St. Nicholas Cemetery, Hometown. Call 10-11 a.m. Thursday. Summit Hill American Legion memorial service 10:30 a.m. Thursday. Contributions in his name may be made to the church, c/o the funeral home, 18232.
Jesse E. Lorah Jesse Earl Lorah, 56, of Coaldale, died Saturday in his residence.He is survived by three sons, Michael and Billy Lorah and Michael Moyer; two daughters, April Teter and Jessica Bachman; and five grandchildren.Memorial services will be announced at a later date from the August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale.

Rudolph P. "Rudy" Surovcik

Rudolph "Rudy" P. Surovcik, 66, of Pottsville, passed away Tuesday morning at Seton Manor, Orwigsburg.

Born in Coaldale, Dec. 16, 1942, he was a son of the late Rudolph and Verna Racko Surovcik.

Rudy was a 1960 graduate of Marian High School and a 1964 graduate of LaSalle College, Philadelphia, where he received a bachelor of science degree. He was a member of Sigma Phi Lambda at LaSalle College.

Rudy worked for IBM, Reading, for more than 30 years, retiring in 1995. After retirement he owned Bowers Group, a sales training company. He was also an employee of Benecon Group Inc.

He was a member of the former St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, Mount Carbon, where he served as a lecturer for many years. He most recently was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville. He was a member of the Draft Board during the Vietnam War. He was past president of Rotary Club, Pottsville.

Rudy is survived by his wife of 44 years, Linda M. DeSalle Surovcik, Pottsville; a daughter, Lisa Walkush, wife of Mark, North Wales; two sons, Greg Surovcik, husband of Dianne, Hellertown, and Kevin Surovcik, husband of Janet, Malvern; six grandchildren, Derek, Ethan, Alex, Gabby, Adam and Annie; his brother, Dennis Surovcik, husband of Maryann, York; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be private. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Hillside, Pottsville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Delaware Valley Chapter, 399 Market Street, Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Schlitzer-Allen-Pugh Funeral Home Inc., Pottsville, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be sent through bestlifetributes.com.

Mrs. Dolores (Kotkocin) Urban, 79, of East Ridge St., Coaldale, died Sunday in St. Luke's Hospital, Bethlehem. She was the widow of Joseph Urban, who died in 1964.Prior to retiring in 2007, she had been employed as a bartender at the Coaldale American Legion Post and the Coaldale Russian Club.Born in Lansford, she was a daughter of the late Harry and Rose (Antolik) Katkocin.She had been a member of SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, Coaldale, until its closing.A Judge of Elections in Coaldale's East Ward, she was also a member and past president of the Coaldale American Legion Post 170 and a member of the Coaldale Russian Club.Surviving are two daughters, Jacqueline Urban of lansford and Elizabeth Bynon of Coaldale; two grandsons, Robert Bynon Jr. and Derrick Bynon; nieces and nephews. Services; Memorial service from the August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, to be announced at a later date.

Published in the Times News on 5/18/2009Published in the Times News on 8/4/2009

Mrs. William Derr Mrs. Ann L. Derr, 81, of Fourth St., Coaldale, died Saturday in the Lehigh Valley Hospital- Cedar Crest, Allentown. She was the wife of William D. Derr.Prior to retiring in 1999 from the former Tami Sportswear, Tamaqua, she had been employed in quality control. Previously, she had been employed in the same capacity at the J.E. Morgan Knitting Mills for 21 years.Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Emma (Richards) Edwards.A life long member of First Congregational Church, Coaldale, she served on the church board, was a deaconess, treasurer of the Ladies Class and a member of the nursing home visitation program. She was also a volunteer at the Hometown Nursing Home.Surviving, in addition to her husband, are a daughter, Deborah "Debbie," wife of Dean Daderko of Coaldale; two sisters, Marian, wife of John Rhoads of Durham, N.C., and Margaret "Sissy" Shellhammer of Lake Hauto; a brother, Edward 'Ted" and his wife, Moyna, of Claymont, Del.; two grandchildren, Dean and Amy Daderko; nieces and nephews. Service : 11 a.m., Wednesday, First Congregational Church, Coaldale, with the Rev. Dr. Wayne Benack officiating. Interment, Odd Fellows Cemetery, Tamaqua. Call 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, or Wednesday, 10 to 11 a.m., at the church. Contributions in her name may be made to the church. Online registry at zrgfuneralhomes.com.

Published in the Times News on 5/11/2009Notice • Guest Book • Send sympathy flowers • Visit the gift shop • Make a memorial contribution

George Kalishevich, 62, of East High Street, Coaldale, died Wednesday, May 6, in the St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. He was the husband of Frances (Nester) Kalishevich.A local radio personality, known as Mr. K, he was employed by radio station WLSH and was retired from the maintenance department at the Pottsville Hospital.Born in Munich, Germany, he was a son of the late Boris and Gailna (Brazeal) Kalishevich.A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, he served during the Vietnam War and was a graduate of Alvernia College, earning a bachelor's degree in criminal justice.An avid outdoorsman, he loved to walk in the woods behind his home.Surviving in addition to his widow are a daughter, Raissa Barnett of Reading; a brother Victor in Poway, Calif.; a sister, Alla Kalishevich of Coaldale; and a niece, Julia Kalish of San Fransisco, Calif. Service: Date and time for a memorial service will be announced at a later date by the August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale. Online registry at zrgfuneralhomes.com.Share photos, videos and more with Legacy Memorial Websites. Find out more.

Joseph R. Pisklak, 82, of Las Tunitas, Venezuela, perished in a fire when his home burned on March 24.

Born in Coaldale, he was a son of the late John and Sophia Pisklak.

While living in Maracaibo, Venezuela, he and his wife, Sara, were founders and administrators of the Roberts School, a U.S. curriculum pre-K through grade 12.

He was preceded in death by brothers, John and William; and sisters, Caroline and Helen.

Surviving are two children, Patricia Lucas, Molokai, Hawaii, and Joseph Robert Jr., Great Mills, Md.; three grandchildren, Joseph C., Kayla and Kerri; a brother, Edward, Seaford, Del.; a sister, Margaret Roxandich, Pottsville; nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is planned.

Sign the guest book at

republicanherald.com

Mrs. Rose C. Sabol, 97, formerly of Coaldale and Queens Village, N.Y., died Thursday, April 2, in the Hometown Nursing Center, Hometown. She was the widow of Stephen Sabol, who died in 1972.Prior to retiring, she was an elevator starter in New York.Born in Lansford, she was a daughter of the late Martin and Mary (Zbyvatel) Drozdek.She was a member of SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, Coaldale, the Panther Valley Golden Agers, Tamaqua Senior Citizens and the Catholic Daughters of America.Surviving are a sister, Josephine Andreas of Nesquehoning; and several nieces and nephews.She was also preceded in death by five sisters, Anna, Pauline, Catherine, Mary and Agnes; and two brothers, Michael and John.

Published in the Times News on 4/30/2009
Phillipovich, Anna M. View/Sign Guest Book

Philip P. "Phil" Miller Sr., 90, of 110 E. High St., Coaldale, died Monday, Feb. 9, in the St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. He was the husband of the late Mary Rita (O'Donnell) Miller, who died in 2001.

He worked for the former Bundy Tubing Company, Hometown, as plant manager. He was hired No. 3 at the plant and retired in 1977.

Born in Coaldale, he was a son of the late Harry and Sadie (Johnson) Miller.

He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Summit Hill, and the former St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Coaldale, where he was a past president of the Holy Name Society.

Miller was a 1933 graduate of the former St. Mary High School, Coaldale.

He was an Army veteran of World War II, having served in Company B, 53rd Signal Battalion. He served in Algeria, French Morocco, Tunisia, Sicily, Naples Foggia, Rome, Northern Apennines and Po Valley and received the EAME Campaign Medal with one Silver Bronze Service Star, two Bronze Service Stars and one Bronze Arrowhead.

He was a past president of CHOSE and a member of the Men of Marian and the V.F.W. and American Legion posts, both of Coaldale.

The deceased was a great fan of the Marian Fillies' volleyball teams, having attended many of their games.

Surviving are a son Philip, and his wife, Debra, of Palmerton; five daughters, Celia, wife of Charles Keer, and Lorraine, wife of Mark Robbins, both of Coaldale, Marian, wife of Kris Hoffner of Palmerton, Sally, wife of Bruce Benner of Bethany Beach, Del., and Joan, wife of Dave Scholla of Dunmore, Pa.; an aunt, Lucy McNelis in Delaware; a sister-in-law Joan, wife of Charles Wildoner of Jim Thorpe; 19 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and his faithful companion, his dog "Holly."

He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Joseph and Charles.

Service: Funeral service 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13, Thomas J. Parambo Funeral Home, 54 W. Fell St., Summit Hill; Mass of Christian Burial 11 a.m., St. Joseph Catholic Church, Summit Hill. Military graveside service, parish cemetery, White Bear. Call 5-8 p.m. Thursday and 10-10:30 a.m. Friday. Contributions may be made to the Philip and Mary Rita Miller Scholarship Fund at Marian High School, c/o the funeral home, 18250.

Charles A. Sharpe, 78, of Coaldale, died Sunday (2-9-2009) in his residence.

Prior to retiring, he taught at the former St. Michael's Catholic School, Lansford.

Born in Coaldale, he was a son of the late Mr. Sharpe and Margaret (Reilly) Sharpe.

Catholic by faith, he was a graduate of the former St. Mary's High School, Coaldale, and St. Mary's College, Maryland.

Published in the Times News on 2/9/2009

David M. Arner

David M. Arner, 52, of 124 E. Phillips St., Coaldale, died Tuesday, Jan. 27, at his residence.

He was last employed for Tamaqua Auto Parts.

Born in Coaldale, he was a son of Margaret (Vavro) Arner, with whom he resided, and the late Bernard Arner.

He was a 1974 graduate of Panther Valley High School.

He was a member of the American Legion and Russian Club, both of Coaldale.

He served in the U.S. Navy from 1974-1980.

He was a Catholic.

Surviving with his mother is a sister, Patricia Arner in Ohio; two brothers, Joseph of Nebraska and Ed, at home.

Service: At the convenience of the family with the Skrabak-Parambo Funeral Home, Lansford, in charge of arrangements.

Max Bubernak

Max Bubernak, 99, of Coaldale, died Wednesday (January 21) in Maple Farms Nursing Home, Akron, Lanscater County. He was the husband of the late Sara (Sheers) Bubernak, who died in 1995.

Prior to retiring, he had been employed by Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Trexlertown, as a pipe fitter. During the war years, he worked at LNC, Coaldale, as a weighmaster and shovel operator.

Born in Lansford, he was a son of the late Titus and Eudoxia (Monchak) Bubernak.

He was affiliated with St. Mary's Russian Orthodox Church, Coaldale.

The last immediate member of his family, he is survived by a son, Russell and his wife, Marian of Lancaster; two grandchildren and two step grandchildren; two great grandchildren and two step great grandchildren.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of arrangements.

Services: 11 a.m., Saturday, St. Mary's Russian orthodox Church, Coaldale, with the Rev. Daniel Mathewson officiating. Interment, Sky View Memorial Park, Hometown. Call Saturday, 9 to 11 a.m. Contributions in his name may be made to the church. Online registry at zrgfuneralhomes.com.

Published in the Times News on 1/22/2009

Mrs. Marie Anne Gorman, 78, of Lincroft, N.J., died Nov. 1 in the Riverview Medical Center, Red Bank, N.J. She was the wife of CDR Thomas J. Gorman, USN, Ret.

Born in Coaldale, she was a daughter of the late Michael and Ellen O'Malley.

She was a graduate of the former St. Mary High School, Coaldale, and attended the former Sacred Heart Hospital School of Nursing, Allentown, where she received her nursing degree.

She worked at the former Coaldale State General Hospital and the St. Joseph Hospital, Lancaster, before entering the U.S. Navy Corps, where she was first assigned to the Naval Hospital at St. Albans.

While on this tour of duty, she was recognized for being on the first surgical team that performed the first open heart surgery in the U.S.

She later worked in the intensive care unit of the Riverview Medical Center and as director of nurses at its extended care facility.

The deceased volunteered as the school nurse at St. Leo Grade School, Lincroft.

She and her husband traveled extensively, including having crossed the Atlantic Ocean 17 times on Cunard ships.

She traced her lineage on her father's side directly to the Irish Pirate Queen Granuaile O'Malley.

Surviving in addition to her husband are a son, Thomas Jr. of Lincroft; a daughter, Kathleen DeCamp of Red Bank; three brothers, Edward of Columbia, Md., Paul of Irvine, Calif., and Thomas of Lancaster; and three grandchildren.

Published in the Lehighton Times News on 20 November 2008

James R. Polansky, 51, of Lakeshore Drive, Jupiter, Fla., died Sunday in Jupiter. He was the husband of Gwyn (Smith) Polansky.

He had been employed as director of business development for the Mizkan Corporation in Illinois, a food production company.

Born in Plainfield, N.J., he was a son of Marie (Sobolowski) Polansky of Jupiter, and the late Raymond Polansky.

He was a member of St. Peter the Apostle Orthodox Mission in Jupiter.

A graduate of Penn State University College of Agriculture, he earned a bachelor of science degree in Food Science. He was a life member of the Penn State Alumni Association and served as assistant scoutmaster for Boy Scouts of America Troop 173 of Jupiter.

Surviving with his wife and mother, are a son, Nicholas R. and a daughter, Anastasia, both at home; and a sister, Gail Polansky of Atlantic City, N.J.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of arrangements

Mrs. Petrina Poko

She worked for the hospital for 28 years before retiring.

Born in Coaldale, she was a daughter of Helen (Derzak) Horoschak of Coaldale and the late Walter Horoschak, who died in 2005.

The deceased was a member of SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, Coaldale, and the Panther Valley Women's Club.

She was a 1972 graduate of Panther Valley High School and also graduated from the St. Luke Hospital School of Nursing.

She enjoyed spending time in Ocean City.

Surviving in addition to her husband and mother are a daughter Kadie of Coaldale; an uncle and cousins.

The E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home, 655 E. Broad St., Tamaqua, is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 10/16/2008
Mrs. Petrina "Patsy" Poko, 85, of 174 Fisher Ave., Coaldale, died Monday in her home. She was the widow of John J. Poko, who died Dec. 4, 1988.

She had formerly been employed as a law clerk for Judge Thomas, during the 1930s.

Born in Mauch Chunk, she was a daughter of the late John and Mary (Roos) Dever.

She was a member of the former St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Coaldale.

A graduate of the former Mauch Chunk High School and the Bethlehem Business College, she was a member of the Coaldale Women's Club, the Mahoning Valley Country Club, the Greenwood Boat Club, Split Rock Cottagers Association, Carbon County Woman's Medical Auxiliary; and volunteered at Miners Memorial Geriatric Center.

Surviving are two sons, James J. and his wife, Pamela, of Pinehurst, N.C., and Joseph J. of Coaldale; two grandchildren and one great grandchild.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 9/25/2008
Born in Coaldale, she was a daughter of the late Elias "Alex" and Mary (Prokopchak) Patochek.

Edward J. Blasko, 85, of 47 E. Phillips St., Coaldale, died (August 6) this morning in the Hometown Nursing Center, Tamaqua R.2. He was the husband of Catherine A. (Purcell) Blasko.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 8/6/2008
She was a member of St. Mary Russian Orthodox Church, Coaldale, where she belonged to the Ladies Aide Society.

Gelatko, Cathy

Cathy Gelatko, 62, of 26 W. Phillip St., Coaldale, died at home Friday after a 12-year battle with cancer.

Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late Stephen and Marie (Boyle) Radocha.

She taught fifth grade in the Diocese of Allentown for over 25 years at St. Ann's School, St. Michael's School and Our Lady of the Angels Academy, Lansford. Prior to that, she was a second grade teacher in the Panther Valley School District.

She was the 2002 American Cancer Society Courage Award Winner for the Carbon-Schuylkill County.

Surviving are two sons, Robert J. Gelatko and his wife, Joanne Calabrese of Mahoning Valley; Michael A. Gelatko and his wife, Kristen of Andreas; Stephen J. Gelatko of Salisbury Township; a daughter, Marianne Gelatko of Coaldale; a brother, Msgr. Stephen Radocha of Palmer Township; and a sister, Anne Keer and her husband, Thomas W. of Coaldale; a grandson, Michael James Gelatko.

The Thomas J. Parambo Funeral Home, 54 W. Fell St., Summit Hill, is in charge of the arrangements.
The deceased attended the former Coaldale High School.

Martin J. Matula

Martin J. Matula, 92, of East High Street, Coaldale, died Wednesday (July 16) in St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. He was the husband of Josephine (Bigus) Matula.

Prior to retiring, he had been employed by the Strick Trailer Company, Langhorne. Previously, he had been employed in construction and at the Number 8 and 14 collieries in the Panther Valley.

Born in Coaldale, he was a son of the late Martin and Johanna (Petrash) Matula.

He was a member of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Tamaqua, and had been a long time active member of SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, Coaldale, prior to its closing.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are two sons, Martin J. and his wife, Joan of Seven Lakes, N.C., and Anthony J. and his wife, Carol, of Glenside; two sisters, Anna Philopovich of South Tamaqua and Jennie Serina of Lansford; a brother, Thomas of Coaldale; five grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of arrangements.
She was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan.

Marie A. Price

Marie A. Price, 65, of Second St., Coaldale, died Sunday in St. Luke's Hospice Care Center, Bethlehem, following a brief illness.

A self employed hair stylist, she had previously been employed in the garment industry, at Julie II Fashions, Tuscarora.

Born in Coaldale, she was a daughter of the late James and Florence (Boyle) Price.

She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Coaldale.

An avid Notre Dame fan, she graduated from Marian Catholic High School in 1960.

Surviving are a brother, James 'Jim", with whom she resided.

The Zizelmann-Roche Funeral Home, 500 E. Broad St., Tamaqua, is in charge of arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 7/15/2008
Surviving are a son, John R., and his wife, Mary, of Summit Hill; two grandsons, Chris Poko of Coaldale and John C. Poko of Summit Hill; a great-granddaughter Vanessa of Coaldale; a sister, Olga Dzurenko in New York; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Patricia A. (Arner) Trudich

Patricia A. (Arner) Trudich, 71, of 201 E. Broad St., Tamaqua, died Friday at Lehigh Valley Hospital Center, Allentown.

Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of James and Helen (McNealis) Arner.

She was employed by Suns Manufacturing, Lansford, and worked as a sewing machine operator before retiring.

She was a member of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Tamaqua, and was a 1956 graduate of Marian High School.

Surviving are a son Peter Trudich Jr. and his wife, Deborah of Summit Hill; three sisters, Theresa Ciavaglia of Coaldale, Helen Gates of Gibbstown, N.J.; and Sarah Terry of Tamaqua; two brothers, William Arner of Tamaqua and Robert Arner of Millsboro, Del.; and two grandchildren, Cody and Tyler Trudich.

She was preceded in death by a her parents, and grandson, Thomas Trudich and by brothers, James, Bernard, Russell, Jack, Charles, Frances, Larry and Joe.

The E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home, Inc., 655 E. Broad St., Tamaqua, is in charge of the funeral arrangements.

She was also preceded in death by three brothers, Michael, Walter and Peter, her twin.

Surviving are two sons, Richard C. and Daniel J., both at home; a daughter, Patricia Orsulak of Coaldale; a sister, Helen Newton of Lansford; two grandchildren, Lori, wife of Ted Dacey of Nesquehoning, and John S. Orsulak, and his wife, Kristel, of Nesquehoning; and five great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by a son, Thomas J.; two sisters, Alice Rowan and Anna Wargo; and a brother Joseph.

The Skrabak-Parambo Funeral Home, 210 E. Bertsch St., Lansford, is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 7/11/2008

Born in Coaldale, he was the son of the late Simon and Antoinette Lewchick.

He worked for various strip mining contractors.

He was a member of St. Nicholas Orthodox Greek Catholic Church, Lansford.

Surviving are a son, Kenneth Lewchick of Richboro, and two grandchildren.

He was predeceased by three brothers, John, Bill, and Steven, and one sister.

The Skrabak-Parambo Funeral Home, 210 E. Bertsch St., Lansford, is in charge of funeral arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 7/5/2008.

A memorial service for Mrs. Delores D. Roode, 57, of Coaldale, who died Thursday, June 19, in Coaldale, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Tamaqua.

The Zizelmann-Roche Funeral Home, 500 E. Broad St., Tamaqua, is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 6/24/2008.

Rose Marie Malarkey, 78, formerly of Market Street and Union Street, Tamaqua, died Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at the Hometown Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Hometown.

Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late Raphael and Ellen (McGroar­ty) Malarkey, and was a member of St. Jerome Catholic Church, Tamaqua.

A 1947 graduate of the for­mer St. Mary’s High School, Coaldale, she worked as a telephone operator for 43 years with Verizon and Bell and was a member of Bell Telephone Pioneers.

Surviving are brothers, John P. Malarkey and his wife, Jane, Tamaqua, and Thomas Malarkey and his wife, Joan, Silver Spring, Md.; and nephews, John P. Malarkey Jr., James M. Malarkey and Joseph T. Malarkey.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Saturday in St. Jerome Catholic Church, 266 W. Broad St., Tamaqua, with the Rev. James C. Bechtel officiat­ing.

Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

Calling hours are 9:15 to 10 a.m. Saturday at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jerome Catholic Church, 266 W. Broad St., Tamaqua, PA 18252; or Marian Catholic High School, 166 Marian Ave., Tamaqua, PA 18252.

Zizelmann-Roche Funeral Home, 500 E. Broad St., Tamaqua, is in charge of arrangements.

To sign the online guest registry, visit www.zrgfuneral homes.com.

Mrs. Vincent J. Sweeney

Mrs. Dorothy M. Sweeney, 69, of 88 Greenwood St., Coaldale, died Friday upon arrival at the St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. She was the wife of Vincent John Sweeney. They were married for 50 years.

Born in Coaldale, she was a daughter of the late William Dally and Dorothy (Shappel) Dally.

She was a member of St. Jerome Catholic Church, Tamaqua.

Surviving in addition to her husband are four daughters, Charlotte K., wife of Harry Murphy, Georgine Boyle, and her companion, Peter Jungbear, Christine, wife of Ken Heffelfinger, and Joan Marie, wife of Joe Hodon, all of Coaldale; two sons, Vincent J., and his wife, Bernice, and Robert W., and his wife, Christine, both of Nesquehoning; a sister Joan, wife of George Evans of Scranton; a brother, James D., and his wife, Debra, in Georgia; 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by a brother, William D.; and a great-grandson, Joshua Fallon.

The E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home, 655 E. Broad St., Tamaqua, is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 6/2/2008.

Gerald "Jerry" Holubek, 62, a beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away Thursday, May 22, 2008, at his home after a long-fought battle against brain cancer.

Funeral: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Biggers Funeral Chapel. Burial: Mount Olivet Cemetery, 2301 N. Sylvania Ave., Fort Worth. Visitation: 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Biggers Funeral Home.

He was born in Coaldale, Pa. Jerry graduated from Marian Catholic High School in Tamaqua, Pa., and joined the United States Air Force on Sept. 15, 1965.

During his Air Force career he served at Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, Yokota, Japan, Thailand and other bases in the U.S. He retired at the rank of technical sergeant with 20 years and one month of service while assigned to Carswell AFB in Fort Worth.

After his retirement from the U.S. Air Force he worked at General Dynamics in Fort Worth and also for Trinity Industries Plant 16 and Plant 29 in Fort Worth where he retired in March 2001.

He married June McLeod of Lake Worth on June 27, 1969.

The family would like to thank Accolade Hospice and One to One Staffing for their care and support.

Survivors: His wife, June; his daughter, Melony Mhoon and her husband, Steven; son, Jody and his wife, Misty, and his granddaughter, Kayla Holubek; brothers, Joe Holubek and his wife, Diana of Hershey, Pa., Mike Holubek and his wife, Andrea of North Hampton, Pa.; his sister, JoEllen Holubek of Coaldale, Pa.; three nieces; one nephew; and his beloved dog, Scooter.

Published in the Star-Telegram from 5/25/2008 - 5/26/2008.

Peter R. Panco, 71, of 141 W. Ruddle St., Coaldale, died Thursday morning in his home. He was the husband of Rose Marie (Pribila) Panco.

Prior to retiring, he was employed by Datacom, Bloomsburg, as a supervisor. Previously, he had been employed by Sarama Lighting, Nesquehoning.

Born in Hazleton, he was a son of the late Peter and Ruth (Miller) Panco.

He was a member of St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church, Lansford, where he was a pierogie maker.

Surviving in addition to his widow are two sons, Peter D., and his wife, Lisa, and John J., both of Hazleton; three stepsons, Richard Pribila, and his wife, Freda, and William Frantz, both of Summit Hill, and Scott Frantz of Coaldale; three brothers, Ronald of Atlanta, Ga., James, and his wife, Geraldine, of Shenandoah Heights, and Stephen, and his wife, Gina, of Hazleton; three sisters, Joan, wife of Jack McCann of Baltimore, Md., and Peggy Hirko and Lorraine Volciak, both of Hazleton; and nine grandchildren.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 5/2/2008.

Lawrence J. Nikolodi Jr., 84, of 300 Union St., Brockton, formerly of Coaldale, died Friday in his home. He was the husband of the late Euginia "Gene" Ossanna, who died in 2003.

Prior to retiring, he had been employed by the Lehigh Navigation and Coal Company and the former Winton Coal Company.

Born in Brockton, he was a son of the late Lawrence and Catherine (Drum) Nikolodi.

A veteran of World War II, he served with the U.S. Army's 702 Tank Battalion under the command of the late Gen. George Patton. He participated in the Invasion of Normandy and was awarded a Purple Heart.

Of the Catholic faith, he was a 1942 graduate of the former Blythe Township High School and was a member of the Coaldale American Legion and the Coaldale VFW.

Surviving is a sister, Madelon Ditzler of Brockton; two nieces, one nephew; and a great nephew.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of arrangements.

He worked in security for the former Coaldale State General Hospital before retiring.

Born in Lehighton, he was a son of the late Ed and Bertha (Cobley) Houseman.

He was an Army veteran of the Korean Conflict.

Surviving in addition to his widow are two sons, James W., at home, and Edwin H., and his wife, Grace, of Coaldale; a daughter Joanne, wife of Jesse Ruth of Lake Hauto; two sisters, Linda, wife of William DeLaurentis of Summit Hill, and Harriet Tomlinson of Tamaqua; a brother Richard of Beltzville; and two grandsons.

Published in the Times News on 2/27/2008.

Thomas J. Sharpe, 88, of Falls Township, Pa., died Sunday in the St. Mary Medical Center, Langhorne. He was the husband of the late Elizabeth (Couch) Sharpe.

He worked for U.S. Steel's Fairless Hills Works for 32 years. As a Union member, he served 28 of those years as a grievanceman, treasurer and financial secretary of Local 4889.

Born and raised in Coaldale, he worked in the coal mines from the age of 13 until his early 20s.

He was an Army veteran of World War II, having attained the rank of sergeant, after which time he moved to Bucks County.

He was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church and American Legion Post 834, both of Fallsington, and the Terchon V.F.W. Post 5542, Chester.

Surviving are a daughter, Mary Bradford of Buckingham; two sons, Thomas P. of Levittown and Kevin of San Diego, Calif.; two grandchildren, a niece and two nephews.

He was also preceded in death by two brothers, John and Joseph; and three sisters, Kathleen, Elizabeth and Mary.

The James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, 2200 Trenton Road, Levittown, is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 2/26/2008.

Prior to retiring, he was a millwright for U.S. Steel, Fairless Hills.

Born in Bern Township, Berks County, he was a son of the late William F. and Sarah (Henn) Miller.

He was a member of the First Congregational Church, Coaldale.

Miller was an Army veteran of World War II, having served in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations.

He was a member and past master of the Panther Valley F. & A.M. Lodge No. 677; a member of the Lehigh Consistory, the Lilly Arch Chapter, Jim Thorpe, and the Coaldale American Legion Post; and a life member of the Hamburg Fire Company.

Surviving are two sons, Daniel H., and his wife, Marion, of Fairless Hills, and Vincent "Skip" of Coaldale; three daughters, Dolores Ponzo of Coaldale, Linda, wife of James Seagraves Sr. of Bristol, and Carolyn C. Miller of Souderton; 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

He was the last member of his immediate family.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of the arrangements.

Published in the Times News on 2/25/2008.

Mrs. Catherine M. "Kay" Martonyak, 81, of East Sixth Street, Jim Thorpe, died Monday, 01/07/2008, in her home. She was the widow of Andrew P. Martonyak Sr., who died Oct. 5, 2006.

She was a mill worker for the former Berkley Bags, Jim Thorpe,, and other local mills, and later was a cook at the former St. Joe's Club and Memorial Park, both in Jim Thorpe, for many years.

Born in Coaldale, she was a daughter of the late Michael and Helen (Kumanchick) Gregus.

She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Jim Thorpe.

Surviving are a son, Andrew P. Jr., and his wife, Corajean (Kneas), of Franklin Township; a daughter, Carol A., wife of George N. Steigerwalt Jr. of Jim Thorpe; four sisters, Bernadine, wife of Jack Welsh of Lewes, Del., Jessie Stianche of Hometown, Margaret, wife of Paul Dirnberger of Portsmouth, R.I., and Irene, wife of Harold Rehrig of Tamaqua; two brothers, Louis, and his wife, Joy Ann, of Jacksonville, Fla., and John, and his wife, Martha (Ellis), of Coaldale; a sister-in-law, Ann (Endy) Gregus of Coaldale; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by a brother Mickey; and a sister, Mary Lauro.

The Edward F. Melber Funeral Home, 524 Center St., Jim Thorpe, is in charge of the arrangements.

He was retired, having been the Coaldale branch manager of the Coaldale branch of the former American Bank.

Born in Coaldale, he was a son of the late Charles P. and Anna C. (McElhenney) Melley Sr.

A decorated army veteran of World War II, he served in the European Theatre.

He was a 1936 graduate of the former St. Mary's High School, Coaldale, and a 1940 graduate of Penn State University.

He was a member of Ss. Cyril & Methodius Church, Coaldale. He belonged to the Holy Name Society of the church.

He also held membership in the Coaldale American Legion and the Coaldale VFW.

Surviving are numerous nieces and nephews including Ann Marie Kahn of Maitland, Fla.; sisters-in law Patsy Melley of Maitland, Fla., Gloria Boyle and Thelma Martinec, both of Coaldale, and a brother-in-law, David D. Jones of Coaldale.

He was pre-deceased by a brother, Charles P. Melley Jr.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of arrangements

The Schaeffer Funeral Home, 300 Alum St., Lehighton, is in charge of arrangements.

Robert C. 'Chevy' Ciavaglia

Robert C. "Chevy" Ciavaglia, 68, of East Phillips Street, Coaldale, died Friday (December 7) at his residence. He was the husband of Mary Theresa (Arner) Ciavaglia, to whom he was married for 40 years.

Born in Coaldale, he was a son of the late Antonio and Catherine (Laskos) Ciavaglia.

He was the owner/operator of B & J Upholstering, Coaldale.

He was a member of St. Mary of the Assumpion Catholic Church, Coaldale.

He graduated from Nesquehoning High School in 1958.

A U.S. Army veteran, he served during the Vietnam War.

He was a member of the Coaldale American Legion and served as its president. He also was treasurer of the Blue & Gold Home Association of the Legion.

In addition, he was a member of the Coaldale Fire Company, West Ward Rod & Gun Club, Coaldale; West Penn Rod & Gun Club, Moss Glen Rod & Gun Club, Coaldale Russian Club, Fr. Henry Baker Council of the Knights of Columbus, and various other organizations.

Surviving in addition to his wife is a son, Robert A. and his wife Amy of Coaldale; five brothers, James and his wife Vera of Ocean City, N.J., Joseph and his wife Lois of Summit Hill, Carmen and his wife Shirley of Mahoning Valley, John and his wife Jackie of Lehighton, and Michael and his wife Gloria of Lehighton; a sister, Geraldine, wife of John Petro of White Bear; and a grandson.

The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of funeral arrangements

October 4, 2007..............Times News

Samuel G. Melnick, 91, of 241 East St., Coaldale, died Tuesday (October 2) in St. Luke\'s Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. He was the husband of the late Mary (Hrinda) Melnick.
The August M. Gulla Funeral Home, 130 E. Ridge St., Coaldale, is in charge of arrangements.